In support of Fibroid Awareness Week, April 18th to April 24th, 2024, USA Fibroid Centers, USA Fibroid Centers will be offering free fibroid screenings. Fibroid Awareness Week strives to empower women with knowledge about uterine fibroids, aiming to focus much-needed attention to a prevalent yet often under-discussed health concern for women: uterine fibroids.
Millions of women around the world suffer from fibroids, non-cancerous growths within the uterus. While these growths may be small and minimal symptoms for some, others experience significant discomfort and a range of unpleasant symptoms. Fibroids can lead to heavy bleeding, anemia, frequent urination, and overall pain. If you are concerned that you might be at risk for fibroids, take our symptoms quiz below:
While the exact cause of fibroids is still unknown, certain risk factors contribute to their development such as:
- Menstruation at an early age
- Family history of fibroids
- Being of African American descent
- Elevated levels of estrogen and progesterone
- Birth control use
- Vitamin D deficiency
Traditionally, women with fibroids are offered surgery like hysterectomy (complete uterus removal) or myomectomy (fibroid removal only). While hysterectomy removes the fibroids permanently, it requires a hospital stay and lengthy recovery and isn’t ideal for those wanting to conceive in the future. However, advancements in research and technology have opened doors to minimally invasive procedures like uterine fibroid embolization (UFE), offering a safer and more effective alternative to major surgery.
UFE: A Starvation Technique for Fibroids
Uterine fibroid embolization is a procedure that shrinks fibroids by cutting off their blood supply. Interventional radiologists use imaging technology to guide a catheter through the groin (femoral artery) or the wrist (radial artery) to the fibroid artery. This process blocks the blood flow to the fibroids, starving them and causing them to shrink.
Benefits of UFE
- Minimally invasive: Compared to traditional surgeries like hysterectomy or myomectomy, UFE is a much less invasive procedure. This translates to a shorter recovery time and less discomfort for the patient.
- Preserves the uterus: Unlike a hysterectomy, UFE leaves the uterus intact. This is a significant advantage for women who still want the option of becoming pregnant in the future.
Why Awareness Matters
It is crucial to know about fibroids as they not only impact a large population of women but often go unnoticed and undiagnosed. Early detection allows women to discuss treatment options with their doctor, which can significantly improve their quality of life. By raising awareness, women can advocate for themselves, explore minimally invasive procedures, and manage symptoms effectively.
Highlighting the prevalence of the condition and the need for innovation in fibroid treatment research, Condoleezza Rice, a former U.S. Secretary of State, shared her struggle with uterine fibroids. For a number of years, Rice’s life had revolved around managing her fibroid symptoms. Heavy periods and constant bloating left her drained, taking a toll on her professional commitments and everyday life. After exploring treatment options, she discovered UFE, a minimally invasive procedure that targeted the fibroids directly. The successful procedure was able to shrink the fibroids and alleviate her symptoms with time. UFE helped Rice to focus on her career without the physical and mental strain from fibroids.
Leading by Example: Taking Action on a National Level and Advocating for Change
Policymakers have also played a key role in advocating for change. New York Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke introduced The Stephanie Tubbs Jones Uterine Fibroid Research and Education Act, calling for an increase in research funding, improve awareness and training for healthcare professionals, and analyze the economic impact of fibroids.
Clarke had suffered in silence, battling the debilitating effects of fibroids for many years. It wasn’t just the physical discomfort, but the lack of understanding and dismissive attitudes from doctors that added to her frustration. It was not up until she decided to do her own research, that she found uterine fibroid embolization as a treatment option. Advocating for fibroids became more than just a cause; it became a way to empower herself and countless other women who deserved better information, support, and treatment options.
Additionally, she has urged the Biden-Harris Administration’s newly launched White House Initiative on Women’s Health Research to prioritize funding for fibroid research. This focus on a prevalent and impactful condition is crucial for developing better diagnosis and treatment options for women struggling with fibroids.
Join the Conversation with USA Fibroid Centers
Fibroid Awareness Week is a powerful reminder that millions of women around the world share this painful experience. By openly discussing fibroids, we can dismantle the stigma and empower ourselves and others to seek the information and support needed to manage this condition effectively.
USA Fibroid Centers has arranged free screenings to encourage women to get wellness checkups leading to early detection of fibroids. The purpose of these screenings is to offer the right diagnosis and provide a treatment plan based on individual needs.
If you suspect you might have fibroids, contact USA Fibroid Centers at 855-615-2555 for an appointment or visit us at https://www.usafibroidcenters.com/ to schedule online.
